IPL 2026: Mental fatigue is a big reason’ - Ravi Shastri urges MI to manage Jasprit Bumrah’s workload carefully

Former Ravi Shastri has expressed concern over the dip in form of Jasprit Bumrah during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Representing Mumbai Indians (MI), Bumrah has managed just three wickets in 10 matches, a stark contrast to his usual match-winning performances.

Shastri believes Bumrah is not at his best and may be dealing with mental fatigue. He has urged MI to manage the pacer carefully, keeping in mind the long-term interests of Indian cricket. With major assignments on the horizon, including the upcoming World Cup in South Africa and important Test tours of New Zealand and Australia, Shastri emphasised that Bumrah needs adequate rest and support to regain his rhythm.

"Bumrah has entered this IPL off the back of a heavy workload with the Indian team over the last 12 months. His struggles are not just physical. Mental fatigue is a big reason. Mumbai Indians need to look after him. Over the next two years, there is a packed schedule, multiple Test series and the 50-over World Cup are coming up. So, his fitness and workload will have to be managed very carefully,” said Shastri on JioHotstar’s ‘Champions Waali Commentary’.

Bumrah was in top form at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in March, which India won, picking up 14 wickets and finishing as the joint-highest wicket-taker. However, his form dipped just a couple of weeks later. Workload management has been a major talking point around Bumrah. Everything possible is being done to keep him fresh and injury-free, from resting him during the Test series against England to preserve him against lower-ranked opponents.

India’s international calendar resumes in full swing from the end of June, with a tour of Ireland followed by a white-ball series in England. With the 50-over World Cup scheduled next year, and India having not won it since 2011, the pressure is immense. India would benefit greatly from having one less concern if Bumrah returns to peak form.